While Marvel Is Having a Hard Time, Another MCU (Mattel Cinematic Universe) Steps In
Seems like Barbie launched another cinematic universe.
As we all know, Marvel has been facing some challenges recently. Almost every movie of the Marvel Cinematic Universe of recent years has been mostly criticized.
It is a combination of different aspects that contributed to the MCU 's slowdown. The universe has clearly faced the challenge of keeping audiences hooked after the epic conclusion of the Infinity Saga.
Marvel tries to introduce as many new characters as possible with their movies and especially TV shows, but this strategy also proved to be wrong.
While Marvel is figuring things out, it seems like they are going to face some serious competition as there's a new player in town — Mattel. Yes, you heard it right, the toy company Mattel is stepping into the world of cinema, and it's all thanks to the success of the recent Barbie.
The film, directed by Greta Gerwig, has been a massive hit, raking in $337 million in just five days, as per Collider. This success has given Mattel the confidence to venture further into the world of cinema.
The company's CEO, Ynon Kreiz, has confirmed that there are 14 additional properties currently in development.
Among these upcoming projects, we have some truly iconic toys being transformed into major motion pictures. There's Barney, the lovable purple dinosaur, which is being pitched as a surrealistic think-piece for adults, starring and produced by Daniel Kaluuya. Then there's Polly Pocket, with a script penned by Lena Dunham and starring Lily Collins.
The world's top-selling Mattel toy, Hot Wheels, is also getting a movie adaptation, produced by none other than J.J. Abrams. The film is said to be "grounded and gritty," with relatable, three-dimensional characters.
Other projects include adaptations of American Girl, Magic 8 Ball, Masters of the Universe, Major Matt Mason, UNO, Wishbone, Matchbox, Thomas the Tank Engine, View Master, and Christmas Balloon.
While it's not confirmed that all these films will exist in the same universe, it's clear that Mattel is making a calculated move. They're hoping to replicate the success of Barbie, but only time will tell if they succeed.